91视频

Since 2007, NAMC-OR has worked to serve the interests of and eliminate barriers for disadvantaged, minority-owned and women-owned construction and professional service businesses. The chapter provides a voice on major legislative issues and information about contracting opportunities.

The group has been a part of social movements for decades and, led by Executive Director Nate McCoy, NAMC-OR held 鈥淩acism in the Construction Industry,鈥� a July 14 listening and brainstorming session via Zoom. Minority contractors, trade group leaders and leaders of local business industry companies and organizations attended the listening session.

鈥淲e need to be stronger partners in ownership, development and building,鈥� McCoy said. 鈥淥ur local workforce needs to be engaged in a process where public and private companies continue to build successful, quality projects while allowing intentional inclusion and restorative justice to be an integral part of the planning and execution of that success.鈥�

John Cardenas, Prosper Portland鈥檚 senior construction diversity coordinator, credited NAMC-OR with pushing to have 鈥渉ard conversations about race and racism in the construction industry with top elected officials, executive directors and business leaders.鈥�

NAMC-OR recently compiled and presented the Equity Report and video to the Metro Council. The report highlights the equity goals and outcomes for the Oregon Convention Center Renovation Project. The partnership of Metro, Colas Construction, Raimore Construction and NAMC-OR created an unprecedented level of participation in the project by the African-American community, a substantial portion of which had been displaced by the original project.

With a timeline of 13 months, the OCCRP was completed on time, on budget and with an average contract amount of $2.6 million going to certified MBE firms. 鈥淎 diverse workforce is not only possible, but will exceed all expectations when leadership is serious about utilizing and valuing equity, diversity and inclusion,鈥� McCoy said.

As the COVID-19 pandemic began to impact NAMC-OR鈥檚 members, the organization provided technical assistance to help members submit applications for financial relief, including showing that they met requirements to receive it and sending email updates about other opportunities when the first round of funding quickly ran out.

Recently, NAMC has been advocating and working with government partners to make policies and resources sustainable long term and not just seasonal or one-time only so small businesses can truly grow and prosper through this pandemic and beyond, McCoy said.